From the Desk of Cheryl Hauer
The month of Elul is known as the gateway to the month of Tishrei, when the High Holidays (Rosh HaShanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot) are celebrated. During Rosh HaShanah, the days of Awe and Yom Kippur, the Jewish people believe they are judged for their actions during the previous year and, through forgiveness, can be given a clean slate for the coming year. The preparation and repentance of Elul affect the outcome of Tishrei.
The ancient city walls of Jerusalem were extremely important in protecting its residents and keeping trade flowing. They functioned as entrances and exits, and stopped enemies and negative influences from entering the city. They were thrown open in welcome or closed and locked to avoid unwanted traffic. Unlike ancient cities, most modern metropolises are not surrounded by walls with gates. But the spiritual importance of the gateway can’t be ignored. We all have gates, which can either be open to receive or closed against the outside world. Our eyes, ears, and mouths are all gateways that are either used to God’s glory or our detriment. What we allow our eyes to see, what we expose our minds to through what we hear, and the positive or negative words we speak are all the result of how carefully we guard our gates.
This Elul, ask the Lord to reveal to you how diligently you are “guarding your gates” and those of your family. Are you allowing negative influences into your heart and home through the games you play, the movies you watch, the music you enjoy, or the time you spend online? How important is social media in your life and the lives of your family?
Don’t worry; God loves you passionately, and He will bring to your attention those things that are negative influences. You can trust Him to help you guard your home, your heart, and your mind.
Parts of this post were excerpted from Repent the Day Before You Die, a 40-day devotional journey by Cheryl Hauer and Rebecca Brimmer.
Blessings and Shalom,
Issachar Community
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